New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE) announces Hereford based Oakwrights winner of design competition

24 January 2020


Oakwrights will create the designs for three new NMITE buildings on the Skylon site: The Centre for Advanced Timber Technology (CATT); The Centre for Automated Manufacture (CAM); Centre for Future Skills (CFS).

Oakwrights will now join the NMITE Skylon Campus team to facilitate the submission of an early planning application. This stage will also provide information to allow NMITE to progress with the procurement process for detailed designs and project delivery.

“We were blown away by the high standard of the entry submissions we received, and were delighted that these came not only from local firms, but architects and designers nationwide,” said Toby Kinnaird, head of partnerships at NMITE. “Oakwrights’ expertise in marrying timber-frame craftsmanship and design with cutting edge technology, convinced the judging panel that they were the most deserving firm. Their innovative energy efficient design for building in particular is very exciting, and we cannot wait to start working together and progressing the designs.”

“Winning this competition to work with NMITE to design three new buildings which will host future learners, including degree apprenticeship and CPD short course students is a fantastic way to kick off the new year and new decade." said Tim Crump, managing director at Oakwrights. "It’s an honour to be involved in the design of what is set to be such a pivotal part of Herefordshire and the future of the British engineering industry for decades to come.”

NMITE is backed by engineering businesses, the Herefordshire community, Herefordshire Council, Olin College of Engineering (USA), professional engineering bodies and the UK Government, which awarded up to £23m in initial funding.